The U.S. Marshals Service has announced a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Nigerian national Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi.
Olawusi, 48, faces serious charges, including first-degree murder and child abuse, in connection with the alleged abuse and subsequent death of his three-month-old son. He is also now listed among the U.S. Marshals’ 15 Most Wanted fugitives.
According to a statement by Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Don Freeman, Olawusi resided in Rhode Island and was initially apprehended after authorities responded to a 2017 emergency call.
On April 3, 2017, police and firefighters found Olawusi’s infant son in critical condition, bleeding from the mouth and nose.
Doctors discovered 18 distinct injuries, including skull fractures, brain trauma, and broken bones, suggesting prolonged abuse. The child was hospitalized and placed on life support but tragically passed away six months later due to his injuries.
Olawusi was arrested on April 20, 2017, and initially charged with child abuse. However, he was released from custody the same day and disappeared soon after.
Following the child’s death in October 2017, authorities upgraded the charges to first-degree murder. Investigations revealed Olawusi fled the U.S. by June 2017 and is believed to have received assistance from relatives in Nigeria to evade law enforcement.
Marshal Freeman emphasized that Olawusi poses a potential threat to the public, especially children, and authorities are determined to bring him to justice.
“Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child and has fled the country to avoid justice,” Freeman stated, adding that the U.S. Marshals are dedicated to using all available resources to locate him.
Described as standing 5 feet 8 inches tall with black hair and brown eyes, Olawusi may also go by the alias Olekun Olawusi. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or through the USMS Tips App.
